MASON - Dart Container Corporation plans to build a new technical and innovation center at its Mason campus that will add 136 jobs in the area.

The $40-million investment will help the food and beverage packaging manufacturer develop new products and designs, said President Jim Lammers. The company produces Solo and foam cups as well as plastic utensils and carryout containers.

Lammers said one of the trends that's driving demand for Dart Container products is how many restaurants are adding delivery options, which offers opportunities to create new products.

"We're very pleased to be expanding in mid-Michigan," Lammers said.

Site preparation on the two-story, 250,000-square-foot facility is underway and the project is expected to be complete by the end of 2018. The facility will be built on 38 acres of land adjacent to Dart Container's corporate headquarters off Hogsback Road between College Road and U.S. 127.

Dart Container secured a $1-million grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. for the project.

In the past five years, Dart Container has invested $60 million in the Mason campus and created over 500 jobs. Dart Container employs more than 2,000 people between its Mason campus and Holt ink plant.